Author, activist, and icon Maya Angelou kicked off CBS Morning’s new series “Note To Self” this morning with a little advice to her 15-year-old self.

Angelou encourages her younger self to experience the world, really take it all in, and remember that “no one can be more human than you.”

Hearing Angelou’s advice to her younger self, made me wonder what I’d tell a younger me. I think–above all else–I think I’d tell my younger self that you are stronger than you think you are and that it’s ok to be different and do what you want.

Que Sera Sera, whatever will be will be. The future is not ours to see. So relax, trust the process and don’t be so afraid of the unknown. You’ll be fine!

RenJennM

I would talk to my middle school self (age 11-13) and say:

Do not harm your body. What you are doing to it is wrong; it is not normal. You are frail, you are lonely, and you are withdrawn. You do not feel beautiful, and you do not love yourself — that is not ok. You need to talk to someone; reach out! Stop shying away from other human beings as if you are a leper. You are worth friendship, and you are worth kindness and respect. You are beautiful, so beautiful. But you are sickly, and you need help to get healthier so you can be radiant and be your most beautiful self. You are so annointed and talented, that when you dance, you touch hearts and inspire lives. But are always so sick and so tired. The things you do to your body now will affect me, your future self: mind, body, and spirit. You will live with this forever if you do not change. Be a kid, not a loner. You should not know of depression. Grasp onto happiness as if it were oxygen. GOD gave you everything you are; do not misuse it. Please, be better. I love you.